By Dawn De Busk

Staff Writer

NAPLES — Having been an event for only four years, the Christmas in July Boat Parade continues to add something new to the mix.

“We are excited to announce that the new owner of the Songo River Queen II, Ryan Carvalho, has planned a special Christmas in July cruise for the evening. This will be the first year the SSQ II has been part of the boat parade event,” according to Robin Mullins, the president/chief executive officer of Sebago Lakes Region Chamber of Commerce (SLRCC).

The Fourth Annual Christmas in July Boat Parade is set to kickoff this Saturday.

“Not only are Naples residents excited, but so are visitors to the area. The parade has become a fun, annual event that many look forward to,” Mullins said.

Some of the best viewing spots are near the Robert Neault Memorial Bridgton since the boats will pass under the bridge from Brandy Pond to Long Lake and back again.

The parade is scheduled to take place right after sunset. Boats are being asked to line up in Brandy Pond at 8 p.m.

The event started out as a way to bring people to the Causeway during the pandemic when public events such as the parade and the fireworks display had been cancelled. The boat parade is presented by the Naples Marine Safety Patrol and SLRCC.

“We have 25 boats registered thus far. We expect twice that number to participate. Boats must be registered (and have an assigned number posted on their vessel) to be eligible for prizes,” Mullins said. “Prizes will be awarded to the top three ‘Best Decorated’ boats. There is also a separate trophy for the ‘Best Decorated Marina Boat.’” 

Mullins tried to whip up the friendly competition.

“Last year’s winner was Naples Marina. Jim Allen hopes to maintain that title in 2023! Good luck, Jimmy. Causeway Marina says you are going to need it,” she said.

More boats might mean a more exciting parade for spectators. Additionally, if more boats are registered, there is more community participation. 

“The Sebago Lakes Region Chamber of Commerce highly recommends boat owners participate in the boat parade. Be sure to register your boat at sebagolakeschamber.com,” Mullins said. “Non-boat owners are urged to find a cozy space on the Causeway for the best parade viewing. The parade should be making its way to the Causeway around 8:30 p.m.” 

Why not make a night of it?

“We also suggest showing up early and having dinner at one of the parade’s sponsors,” she said listing Brother Flecker’s, Gary’s Olde Towne Tavern and Freedom Café.

Boat operators have a different set up of directions

“Line up for the boats is 8 p.m. near Breezy Point on Brandy Pond. The parade of boats will take off at 8:15 p.m. and will head up the east shore of Brandy Pond through the Chute River, under the Causeway and go left following the seawall and Causeway. It will then follow the west shore to Stimpson’s Point and cross Long Lake to Arrowhead Point, then follow the east shore back through the Causeway,” she said.  “We do ask that boats in the water viewing the parade please leave space for the parade to come through this route.”

A little rain won’t slow things down.

“The event will go off rain or shine,” she said. “We will only cancel if a thunderstorm is imminent. Cancellation only will be communicated to registered (with the event) boaters and via Facebook around 5 p.m.”